Breathing Issues

Mouth breathing is the act of breathing in and out through the mouth. It is normal to breath through the mouth occasionally, such as when exercising or when the nose is blocked. However, chronic mouth breathing can have a number of negative health consequences. 

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Here are some of the ways mouth breathing can affect health:

• Oral health problems: Mouth breathing can dry out the mouth, which can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. It can also malocclusion, or crooked teeth, and changes in the facial structure.

• Sleep disorders: Mouth breathing can increase the risk of sleep apnea, a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Sleep apnea can lead to several health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
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• Respiratory problems: Mouth breathing can make it more difficult to filter the air that is breathed in, which can increase the risk of respiratory infections such as asthma and bronchitis. 

• Cognitive problems: Mouth breathing can reduce the amount of oxygen that is delivered to the brain, which can lead to cognitive problems such as difficulty concentrating and learning.

• Other health problems: Mouth breathing has also been linked to a number of health problems, including headaches, chronic fatigue, and high blood pressure. 

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Your Myofunctional Therapy Evaluation is a valuable tool to help identify underlying concerns and recommend you  to the appropriate medical practitioner for further evaluation. If you or your child is a chronic mouth breather, it is important to see a doctor or dentist to determine the underlying cause and discuss treatment options. Treatment for mouth breathing may involve addressing the underlying cause, such as allergies or enlarged tonsils, or using oral appliances to help keep the mouth closed at night.

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Here are some tips to help you or your child breath through the nose:

• Avoid allergens: If you have allergies, try to avoid the things that trigger your symptoms. This may include pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. 

• Treat nasal congestion: If you have nasal congestion due to a cold or allergies, use over-the-counter medications or saline nasal sprays to help you clear your nose. 

• Humidify the air: Dry air can irritate the nose and throat, which can make it more difficult to breathe through the nose. Use a humidifier in your bedroom at night to help add moisture to the air. 

• Practice nasal breathing exercises: There are several exercises that can help you learn how to breath through your nose more effectively. One simple exercise is to close your mouth and inhale and exhale slowly through your nose.